Apple recalls faulty first generation iPod nano in Korea

Apple has had to recall a batch of first generation iPod nanos in Korea over concerns they might potentially overheat, swell and set fire.

A South Korean government agency confirmed the news following complaints from consumers.

The Korea Herald first reported on 25 June that the government had asked Apple to recall its first-generation iPod Nano models, with four cases of batteries overheating or exploding having been reported since December in Korea.

"Customers who are concerned about possible overheating of the battery can get it exchanged," Park In-kyu, an official with the Korea Agency for Technology & Standards, told the newspaper, citing a document sent by Apple Korea on 7 July.

"If Apple had delayed recalls, its image would have suffered a blow," he said.

In 2008, Japanese officials asked Apple to investigate similar issues with potentially exploding iPod nanos.

First released in September 2005, the iPod nano sold its first million units in just 17 days, despite claims from some users of easily scratched players and even cracked screens.